UNDER PLATE
Aërides Lobbii Ainsworthii, Dr. Ainsworth's 53
Bifrenaria bella, _Lemaire_ 51
Bletia anceps, _Rchb. f._ 75
Bletia Perrinii, _Rchb. f._ 60
Bletia tuberculosa, _Sprengel_ 91
Bothriochilus bellus, _Lemaire_ 51
Cattleya aurea, Mr. Percival's 70, 84
Cattleya gigas burfordiensis, Sir T. Lawrence's 50
Cattleya labiata, Mr. Gaskell's 75
Cattleya Mossiæ, Mr. De Barry Crawshay's 93
Cattleya Perrinii, _Lindley_ 60
Cattleya Skinneri oculata, Mr. Hardy's 94
Cattleya superba, Mr. Schneider's 64
Cattleya Trianæ alba, Mr. E. Wright's 82
Cattleya Trianæ Russelliana, Baron Schröder's 83
Cattleya virginalis, Mr. Percival's 64
Cattleya Warneri, Mr. Southgate's 51
Cattleyas, high-priced 94
Coelogyne cristata hololeuca, _Rchb. f._ 54
Cymbidium tesselloides, _Roxb._ 59
Cypripedium Parishii, Mr. A. Paul's 70
Dendrobium Dearei, Sir T. Lawrence's 93
Disa grandiflora superba, Mr. Heywood's 58
Dodgson, Richard Barton, Esq., death of 52
Epidendrum labiatum, _Rchb. f._ 88
Lælia superbiens, Mr. A. H. Smee's 83
Limodorum tuberculosum, _Du Petit-Thouars_ 91
Maxillaria Steelii, _Hooker_ 55
Mesospinidium aurantiacum, _Rchb. f._ 53
Odontoglossum Alexandræ, Mr. Buchan's fine variety of 68
Odontoglossum coronarium miniatum, Lord Rendlesham's 67
Odontoglossum grande, Mr. Walker's 72
Odontoglossum Jenningsianum, Mr. R. Smith's 68
Odontoglossum Lehmanni, _F. C. Lehmann_ in litt. 66
Odontoglossum lyroglossum, Mr. Harvey's 87
Odontoglossum maxillare, _Hook. f., non Lindley_ 71
Odontoglossum triumphans, Mr. Gordon's 89
Oncidium Phalænopsis, Mr. E. Salt's 69
Orchids at Bickley 60, 64
Orchids at Brentham Park, Stirling 65
Orchids at Chislehurst 55
Orchids at the Edinburgh Horticultural Exhibition, September, 1882 62
Orchids at Fallowfield 54
Orchids at the Manchester Exhibition, May, 1882 49
Orchids at New-Hall-Hey 50
Orchids at Pickering Lodge, Timperley 82
Orchids at Sudbury House, Hammersmith 92
Orchids at The Kilns, Falkirk 66
Orchids at Woolton Wood, Liverpool 80
Orchids in France (Ferrières) 63
Orchids in France (Gouville) 61
Orchids, Baron Alphonse de Rothschild's 63
Orchids, Comte de Germiny's 61
Orchids, Lord Rendlesham's 94
Orchids, Mr. Lee's (Downside) 71
Orchids, effects of Fog on 76
Orchids for the Drawing-room 79
Orchids, watering 57, 59
Phaius Bensoniæ, _Hemsley_ 67
Phaius tuberculosus, Baron Schröder's 81
Phaius tuberculosus, Sir T. Lawrence's 81
Phalænopsis Mariæ, _Burbidge_ 87
Vanda densiflora, _Lindley_ 56
Vanda suaveolens, _Blume_ 77
Vanda tessellata, _Lodd._ 59
Vanda tesselloides, _Rchb. f._ 59
Vanda tricolor, continuation 78
Vandas flowering in a small state 74
Vandas, Mr. Lee's (Downside) 90
Zygopetalon Lehmanni, _Rchb. f._ 57
Zygosepalon rostratum, _Rchb. f._ 78
[Illustration: PL. 49.
LÆLIA AUTUMNALIS ATRORUBENS.]
LÆLIA AUTUMNALIS ATRORUBENS.
[Plate 49.]
Native of Mexico.
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ oblong-ovate, terete, furrowed, bearing two
or three leaves at the attenuated apex, and sheathed at the base with
large brown imbricated scales. _Leaves_ oblong-linear, spreading,
smooth, leathery in texture. _Scape_ terete, issuing from between the
leaves, and much longer than them, bearing five or six flowers at the
apex, jointed, with sheathing scales at the joints. _Flowers_ large
and richly-coloured, much more so than in the typical form,
sweet-scented; _sepals_ lanceolate acuminate, spreading, of a
brilliant purple-crimson, paler towards the base; _petals_ ovate
acuminate, subundulate, of the same colour as the sepals; _lip_
three-lobed, the lateral lobes erect, truncately rounded, white, the
middle lobe obovate-oblong, of an intensely brilliant purple-crimson
colour, bilamellate on the disk, the apex recurved. _Column_
semicylindrical, decurved, rosy purple.
Lælia autumnalis atrorubens, _Backhouse_, in _Gardeners' Chronicle_,
N.S., xii., 232.
Mr. Bateman has well observed that "the genus _Lælia_ may be regarded as
one of the most ornamental of its tribe, since pleasing colours,
graceful habit, long duration, and delicious perfume--in short, all the
essentials of floral beauty seem to be combined in its various species."
There is, indeed, no doubt that in this genus some of the most showy of
our cultivated Orchids are to be found. There are, moreover, species
presenting many different hues, varying from yellow to rich purple, and
while some of them produce small flowers, in others they are gigantic in
size. The subject of our plate, as will be seen from the figure, is a
magnificent Orchid, our drawing of which was taken from a well-managed
specimen grown by Mr. Stevens, Gardener to W. Thompson, Esq., The
Grange, Walton, Stone, Staffordshire. This particular variety was
imported in 1878 by Messrs. James Backhouse & Son, of York, who grow it
to great perfection.
There are many known varieties of _Lælia autumnalis_, but the one before
us is by far the most beautiful of them all, being superior both as
regards the size and the colour of the flowers. The pseudobulbs of this
form, too, are much stouter and stronger than those of the type form.
This variety, as also does the original _Lælia autumnalis_, blooms
during the autumn and winter months, when flowers are in great request.
_Lælia autumnalis atrorubens_ is a compact-growing evergreen plant, the
pseudobulbs of which, with the foliage, attain to about ten inches in
height. The flower-spikes are produced from the apex of the bulb just at
the period when it has completed its growth; they each produce several
flowers, which are of large size and stout substance, and of a rich
crimson-magenta or purple-crimson colour, and last two to three weeks in
perfection.
This plant grows naturally in exposed situations, and on this account,
no doubt, we find that it likes plenty of sun and as much light as
possible, just enough shade being given to prevent the foliage from
burning. The conditions best suited to it are that it should be planted
in a basket or pan, and suspended from the roof of the cool house; or if
fastened to a block placed on a damp wall, this will suit it equally as
well. It should receive a copious supply of water during the growing
season; and in warm weather syringing will be found beneficial to it in
the morning, and also when the house is shut up in the afternoon.
Orchids at the Manchester Exhibition, May, 1882.--The Orchids were a
marvellous sight, and probably such a magnificent display of these
glorious plants was never before seen. The plants, many of which bore
grand masses of blossom of many rich shades of colour, were arranged
along both sides of the large Exhibition house in the Gardens at Old
Trafford, and had been brought together from different parts of the
country, as well as from the vicinity of Manchester. Everyone who
possesses a taste for horticulture--and especially for the wonderful
productions of nature which have been brought from distant lands by our
plant collectors, and are transmitted to our exhibitions both by amateur
growers and nurserymen, so that the public may be able to see all these
treasures at one view--should avail themselves of the opportunity of
witnessing this exhibition. The entrance fee is only one shilling, and
besides Orchids there is always provided a grand display of other
plants, too numerous to mention. It is gratifying to learn that 51,000
persons availed themselves of the opportunity to visit this grand show
of 1882. We may venture to add that the Council of the Manchester
Botanical and Horticultural Society, and Mr. Findlay, the Curator of the
Gardens, are doing a great benefit to the horticultural world, as well
as to the general public, by bringing such multitudes of fine plants
together, while at the same time they secure a good revenue for carrying
on the gardens, and afford much gratification to the subscribers, who
can thus at their ease feast their eyes upon nature's beauties to an
extent they could not do even if they travelled to the various native
habitats of the plants--for even there no one could possibly witness
such a diversified display at one point. The best advice we can give to
those who are fond of flowers is to go next year and see for themselves,
as the specimens are too numerous to be mentioned in our limited space.
The show is held annually, and continued during Whit-week, the last
being the sixteenth anniversary.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 50.
ZYGOPETALUM CLAYII.]
ZYGOPETALUM CLAYII.
[Plate 50.]
_A Garden Hybrid._
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ oblong, furrowed, two to three inches long.
_Leaves_ lorate-lanceolate, narrowed towards the base, nervose,
persistent, about a foot and a half in length when mature. _Scape_
radical, many-flowered, as long as the leaves. _Flowers_ large and
very showy; _sepals_ oblong, lanceolate, acute, the lateral ones
spreading, purplish brown with green margin and indistinct transverse
bands, forming broad blotches, which are often obscurely defined;
_petals_ narrower, lanceolate acute, directed forwards, of the same
colour as the sepals; _lip_ broad, obcuneate, emarginate, bent upwards
abruptly at the base towards the column, so as to form a blunt chin,
and again bent downwards, having two projecting points or auricles at
the back, the front portion narrow at the base, nearly one and a half
inch wide, indistinctly three-lobed, furnished on the disk with a
raised plaited ruff or frill, the colour in the best forms a deep
violet-purple, with darker purple lines. _Column_ stout, with two
small incurved lobes just below the anther bed, dark mottled purple
behind, and streaked with purple in front.
Zygopetalum Clayii, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Gardeners' Chronicle_,
N.S., vii., 684.
It gives us great pleasure to be able to figure one of the finest hybrid
Zygopetalums that has yet been raised in this country, and one,
moreover, which is totally distinct from any other member of the genus.
The plant will be appreciated by growers of Orchids on account of the
uncommon colour of its lip--blue being a colour that is seldom met with
amongst Orchidaceous plants, but one which is, nevertheless, in great
request.
The present novelty was raised by Colonel Clay, of Birkenhead, some few
years ago, and was the result of a cross between _Zygopetalum crinitum_
and _Z. maxillare_. The hybrid was exhibited at one of the meetings of
the Royal Horticultural Society, in May, 1877, and was awarded a
Certificate of Merit. Since that time we have acquired the stock of this
plant from Colonel Clay, and have bloomed several specimens. The form
represented by our artist in the accompanying plate bloomed in the
Victoria and Paradise Nurseries in March last. We have also bloomed
another variety, somewhat different from the foregoing in the markings,
the colours being the same; the lip was in this case slightly blotched,
and the sepals and petals were suffused with brown.
_Zygopetalum Clayii_ is a free-growing evergreen plant, with foliage
reaching to about eighteen inches in height. It produces its flowers at
different periods of the year, at the time when it is starting into
growth. The flowers are borne in upright spikes from the base of the
young growths. The sepals and petals are brownish purple, with a narrow
green border, and sometimes distant cross lines of green, while the lip
is broad, and of a dark purplish blue. The plant lasts in bloom for
about two months.
It is a very free-growing Orchid, requiring exactly the same treatment
as _Zygopetalum Mackayi_, and other familiar species. The Cattleya house
will be found to suit it best, and it should be grown in a compost of
good fibrous loam with a little leaf-mould added. Being naturally a
strong fleshy rooting plant it requires a good supply of water during
the growing season. It is best cultivated in a pot.
Orchids at New-Hall-Hey.--When visiting the collection of G. W. Law
Schofield, Esq., New-Hall-Hey, Rawtenstall, near Manchester, we noticed
the finest variety of _Dendrobium lituiflorum_ we have ever seen. It
bore seventy of its lovely showy blossoms, the sepals and petals of
which were of a very dark purple colour, and the lip white, edged with
purple; this was one of the richest coloured Orchids we have seen. We
also noticed a grand variety of _D. crassinode superbum_, each blossom
being three and a half inches across, and of a very good colour.
Associated with this was _D. MacCarthiæ_, which one seldom sees, though
it bears some of the most beautifully bright pinkish rose and white
flowers that can be imagined, and they are of good size and substance.
Of _Odontoglossum vexillarium_ there was a plant which had upon it
forty-one of its richly coloured flowers, each measuring four and a half
inches across. In the Cattleya house was a very fine _Cattleya Mossiæ
grandis_, with sepals and petals of a delicate rose colour, and the lip
large, of a rich magenta, with a lighter margin, each blossom measuring
eight inches across. There is here a newly erected house for Cattleyas,
which are doing well, and reflect great credit upon Mr. J. Wise, the
gardener, who takes very great interest in his plants, everything being
kept in good order.--B. S. W.
Cattleya gigas burfordiensis.--We noticed a wonderful example of
_Cattleya gigas burfordiensis_ at a recent meeting of the Royal
Horticultural Society. It was exhibited by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart.,
M.P., and was deservedly awarded a First Class Certificate. The plant
bore four very fine blossoms, each measuring more than eight inches in
diameter; the sepals and petals were of a beautiful rose colour, the lip
large, three inches across, and of a deep amethyst colour, edged with
dark purple-rose, the throat being orange, and the upper portion folded
over the column of the same rich rosy purple colour as the lip. The
plant was in a very vigorous state of growth, and the flowers stood up
well, so as to give it an imposing appearance. It is no doubt one of the
finest of the Cattleyas.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 51.
COELIA BELLA.]
COELIA BELLA.
[Plate 51.]
_Native of Guatemala._
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ roundish-ovate, sub-compressed, pale green,
the older ones oblong-ovate. _Leaves_ of a light green colour, about
ten inches in height, three or four from the top of the pseudobulb,
narrow ensiform acuminate, plicate, five-ribbed, convolutely sheathing
at the base. _Scape_ radical, short, clothed with bifarious sheathing
bracts, four to seven-flowered. _Flowers_ of moderate size,
tricoloured, emitting a very sweet odour, the _perianth_ tubular
below, funnel-shaped above, the _bracteoles_ oblong, obliquely
dimidiate; _sepals_ and _petals_ similar, somewhat fleshy in texture,
creamy white tipped with magenta-rose, the upper sepal shorter, oblong
obtuse, terminating abruptly at the pedicel, the lateral ones produced
behind into a blunt spur adnate to the base of the column; _lip_
yellow, produced at the base, and abruptly replicate, forming a
cucullate cavity enclosed within the spur, oblong, three-lobed, the
lateral lobes short quadrate, the middle lobe linguiform acute, with a
large fleshy orange-coloured convex callosity occupying the disk.
_Column_ white, broadly cuneate, three-toothed at the apex.
Coelia bella, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Walpers' Annales Botanices
Systematicæ_, vi., 218; _Hooker fil._, _Botanical Magazine_, t. 6628.
Bifrenaria bella, _Lemaire_, _Jardin Fleuriste_, iii., t. 325.
Bothriochilus bellus, _Lemaire_, _L'Illustration Horticole_, iii., 30.
We have in this plant a representative of a small genus of Orchids, few
of the species of which are worthy of cultivation. That now before us
is, however, a very pretty and curious plant, as will be seen by a
glance at our plate. We believe that _Coelia bella_ was introduced about
thirty years ago by the Messrs. Loddiges, of Hackney, but at the present
time it is extremely scarce. Lemaire, by whom it was described and
figured in 1853, in the volume of _Jardin Fleuriste_ above quoted,
states that it was introduced about the same period, from the Island of
St. Catherine's, to the Belgian Gardens, by M. Ambroise Verschaffelt,
through his collector, M. F. Devos, but Sir Joseph Hooker has recently
pointed out that there are specimens of it in Lindley's Herbarium,
collected in Guatemala by Mr. Skinner, and that, like its congeners, it
is probably a native of Central America. For the opportunity of
preparing our figure, we are indebted to the courtesy of J. C. Bowring,
Esq., Forest Farm, Windsor Forest, by whom it is flowered freely every
year.
_Coelia bella_ is a compact-growing evergreen plant, with small globose
or ovoid pseudobulbs of a light green colour. The ensiform foliage is
also light green, and grows about ten inches high. The flower-spikes
proceed from the base of the pseudobulbs, and produce four to seven
funnel-shaped flowers on each spike. The sepals and petals are of a
creamy white hue, tipped with rich magenta, while the lip is yellow, the
whole perianth being very thick and fleshy in texture. The plant
produces its blossoms during the autumn months, and succeeds well if
cultivated in a pot with plenty of good drainage; fibrous peat should be
used for potting, and a liberal supply of water should be given during
the growing season, which is just after the flowering period.
The temperature of the Cattleya house will be found to suit this
_Coelia_, or it may be grown in a moist stove. We have often seen plants
of this kind do better in a house wherein miscellaneous stove plants are
grown than in the Orchid house, which we believe is owing to their
obtaining under these conditions more moisture and light, two things in
which most Orchids delight. We mention this in order that cultivators
may know and understand that there are various Orchids which can be
grown, and grown well, in company with other subjects in an ordinary
plant stove. We ourselves have found that many of the species do best in
a house where such plants as Crotons, &c., are grown. Dendrobiums
especially like this treatment, under which the bulbs attain much larger
dimensions, and become better ripened. It is quite an erroneous idea
that Orchids all require special houses for their successful
cultivation. This certainly is not the case, as some of the finest
Cattleyas, Vandas, Dendrobes, Phalænopsis, &c., that we have ever met
with, have been cultivated in ordinary plant stoves, where they get a
little shade from the burning rays of the sun.
Cattleya Warnerii.--A well-bloomed plant of this noble Orchid was
exhibited at the Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, on June
13th, by C. L. Southgate, Esq., of Streatham. This specimen was an
example of what can be produced by giving a plant the treatment it
likes--for such must have been the case in this instance. The plant was
in an eight-inch pot, and bore three fine spikes of blossoms, one having
six, another five, and the third four flowers upon it, all expanded. The
sepals and petals were of a beautiful rose colour, the lip a rich
crimson, finely fringed, and marked with orange on the upper part. It
was altogether a very striking object, and was greatly admired for the
profusion of blossom produced in so small a pot. We mention this plant
in order that our readers may know how abundantly it can be bloomed, as
we often hear cultivators say that it does not flower freely, a theory
which in this case must undoubtedly be wrong. The freeness of blooming
evinced by this plant may be owing to the smallness of the pot in which
it is grown; it may, therefore, be well for others to follow Mr.
Salter's example in this respect, since he has been so successful in
cultivating it.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 52.
ODONTOGLOSSUM MACULATUM.]
ODONTOGLOSSUM MACULATUM.
[Plate 52.]
_Native of Mexico._
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ oblong, compressed, usually bearing a
solitary leaf, other leaves with equitant articulated petioles
investing the bulb. _Leaves_ oblong, acute, five to seven nerved, of a
parchment-like texture, and a bright green colour. _Scape_ radical,
bearing a many-flowered pendulous or semi-erect raceme, furnished with
boat-shaped brownish herbaceous bracts shorter than the ovaries.
_Flowers_ prettily spotted, about two and a half inches in breadth,
and upwards of three inches in depth; _sepals_ linear-lanceolate,
acuminate, green or stained with brown outside, chestnut brown within,
marked with green transverse bars at the base; _petals_ oblong
undulate acuminate, chrome-yellow, thickly spotted with brownish red
on the basal half; _lip_ unguiculate, cordate acuminate, sub-crenate,
of the same colour as the petals, with a concave two-valved emarginate
purple-veined appendage on the claw. _Column_ white, pubescent,
obsoletely auriculate near the apex.
Odontoglossum maculatum, _Lindley_, _Botanical Register_, 1840, t. 30;
_Id._, _Folia Orchidacea_, art. _Odontoglossum_, No. 11; _Pescatorea_,
t. 28; _Reichenbach fil._, in _Walpers' Annales Botanices
Systematicæ_, vi., 829; _Bateman_, _Monograph of Odontoglossum_, t.
20; _Floral Magazine_, t. 348 (as maculosum); _Williams_, _Orchid
Grower's Manual_, 5 ed., 237.
The Odontoglossums are amongst the most popular of Orchids. They are not
only esteemed for their fine showy flowers but for their long lasting
qualities, and they can nearly all be grown in houses with a low
temperature. The species we now bring before the notice of our readers
is a most distinct and desirable one, which has been known in
cultivation for many years. The drawing from which our plate was
prepared was taken from a plant that flowered in the collection of W.
Salt, Esq., of Ferniehurst, Shipley, Yorkshire, who has a grand lot of
cool Orchids, which are, moreover, exceedingly well cultivated.
_Odontoglossum maculatum_ is not only free but compact in its growth. It
has thick fleshy pseudobulbs, and light green foliage, and the
individual plants produce their sub-erect spikes of flowers at different
times of the year, according to the period of the completion of their
growth. The flowers are very strikingly beautiful, being of a colour
that one seldom sees in Orchids, and they continue for a long time in
perfection when protected against damp. The colour, however, varies in
different plants. The form originally figured in the _Botanical
Register_ has the sepals green outside, and chestnut-brown within; that
published in the _Pescatorea_ has the sepals represented as brownish
purple in front, paler purple behind, with green tips on both surfaces;
and the form figured in the _Floral Magazine_, if correctly rendered,
had the greenish sepals indistinctly spotted with brown.
This species, as do many other Mexican Orchids, likes a light position,
with plenty of air on warm days, and a good supply of water during the
growing season. Propagation is effected by division of the pseudobulbs
in the usual way.
Death of Richard Barton Dodgson, Esq., Beardwood, Blackburn.--We are
very sorry to have to record the death of one who has done so much for
horticulture as our good friend Mr. Dodgson. All who knew him must feel
deeply grieved at the loss of such an amiable and kind-hearted
gentleman--for such he was, not only to us, but to all who came into
contact with him; of this, the expressions of gratification that have
emanated from all who have paid Mr. and Mrs. Dodgson a visit, supply
abundant evidence. The reception given by him to Gardeners, Nurserymen,
&c., when calling to see his collection of plants, was always a most
cordial one, and whether it was to one or a dozen persons it never
varied. All who were acquainted with Mr. Dodgson know how fond he was of
his Plants, especially his Orchids. In the collection at Beardwood there
are some of the finest specimens that can anywhere be seen, and also
many rare varieties that are not to be met with elsewhere. This
collection has been forming for many years, and it was always Mr.
Dodgson's study to procure the best kinds possible. Many persons will be
able to recall the fine specimens exhibited from Beardwood at the
Manchester, Blackburn, and Preston Shows, and will recollect that when
the Royal Horticultural Society held their large Exhibition at Preston,
Mr. Dodgson took most of the first class honours in the classes in which
he exhibited. He was most kind and liberal to his Gardeners, giving them
every encouragement in carrying out their duties, and they in their
turn, were always ready to wait upon him. During his illness he would
often express a wish to see his favourite plants as they came into
bloom, and these were accordingly taken into his bedroom by his
Gardener, and proved a great source of delight to him in the midst of
his severe sufferings. We regret that the available space in the _Album_
is so limited or we should have said more. We have figured and described
from time to time some fine plants from the Beardwood collection, and we
have yet other illustrations taken by our artist, which will be
published at some future time. We must again express our deep and
sincere regret at the loss of such a devoted patron of Horticulture.--B.
S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 53
ADA AURANTIACA]
ADA AURANTIACA
[Plate 53.]
_Native of New Grenada._
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ sub-cylindrical, tapering upwards, three to
four inches long, sheathed with reddish scales at their base. _Leaves_
terminal, channelled, broadly linear, four to six inches long, one to
three in number. _Scape_ terminal, longer than the leaves, bisquamate,
bearing a drooping spike of from ten to fourteen rather distichously
placed flowers, which have each a scariose lanceolate-subulate bract
at its base. _Flowers_ brightly coloured, the perianth closed below,
and only opening in the upper part; _sepals_ sub-equal, of a bright
orange or cinnabar-red, spreading only from above the middle,
linear-lanceolate, much acuminate, the lateral ones somewhat oblique
at the base; _petals_ smaller, but similar in form and colour; _lip_
of the same bright orange-red, undivided, parallel with the column,
and adnate to its base, lanceolate, shortly acuminate, scarcely half
the length of the sepals, with a crest formed of two connate
membranaceous lamellæ, pubescent inside near the base. _Column_ short,
thick, wingless; anther case hemispherical; _pollen-masses_ two,
obovate, seated on a cuneate caudicle, arising from a gland.
Ada aurantiaca, _Lindley_, _Folia Orchidacea_, art. _Ada_; _Hooker_,
_Botanical Magazine_, t. 5435; _Bateman_, _Second Century of
Orchidaceous Plants_, t. 113; _André_, _L'Illustration Horticole_, 3
ser., t. 107; _Williams_, _Orchid Grower's Manual_, 5 ed., 62.
Mesospinidium aurantiacum, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Walpers' Annales
Botanices Systematicæ_, vi., 857.
This is the only member of the genus _Ada_ with which we are yet
acquainted, and even this is by some authorities referred to
_Mesospinidium_. Whether forming a distinct genus or not, it is a well
marked and charming Orchid, one by means of which a fine contrast of
colour can be insured in the arrangements made for the decoration of our
Orchid houses. The accompanying plate was taken from a fine specimen
which bloomed in the Victoria and Paradise Nurseries, but as our page is
limited in size only a portion of the plant could be represented. This
plant bore twenty of its graceful and brilliantly-coloured spikes of
flowers. When thus successfully cultivated no one could fail to admire
the _Ada aurantiaca_, the more so as it is one of the Orchids which
thrive in a cool house, and plants can be purchased at a very small
cost.
_Ada aurantiaca_ is an evergreen species of remarkably free habit. It
grows about ten inches high, and has foliage of a fine dark green
colour. It produces its flower spikes from the young growths, between
the leaves, one or two together, the spikes being drooping towards the
extremity and the flowers of a bright orange-scarlet colour. These
flowers are produced during the winter and spring months, and last for
several weeks in perfection.
The species is a native of New Grenada, where it is found at the great
elevation of 8,000 feet, consequently it will grow well with Odontoglots
under cool treatment. Some years ago it was very rare, but now, thanks
to our collectors, it is more plentiful, and hence has become popular.
It is a most important decorative plant on account of its colour, which,
as a contrast, is especially useful when placed amongst the Odontoglots.
We have found it most effective when it is brought into close
association with the delicate colours of _O. Alexandræ_ and _O.
Pescatorei_ the effect obtained by the intermixture is altogether
charming.
The _Ada_ requires the same treatment as the Odontoglots. The potting
material best suited to its growth is good fibrous peat, with plenty of
drainage. It will thrive either in a pot or in a basket, and in potting
it should be well elevated above the rim, so that the roots can work
freely among the material in which it is potted. The soil should be kept
moist during the growing season, but on no account must the moisture be
allowed to become stagnant, a condition which can be prevented by using
charcoal mixed with the peat, which will keep the drainage open, and
allow the water to pass off. If the soil should by any mischance become
soddened it must be removed and fresh soil made use of, the roots at the
same time being well washed previously to repotting.
Shade is very essential to the well being of the foliage, as the leaves
are apt to go spotted if the sun is permitted to shine upon them. In its
native country it is found in shady places, and hence will not bear full
exposure, although in its artificial home it likes all the light
possible.
Aërides Lobbii Ainsworthii.--We have received a grand spike of this
beautiful Orchid from R. F. Ainsworth, Esq., M.D., of Lower Broughton,
Manchester. It is one of the darkest and best varieties that has come
under our notice. The same plant was exhibited a few years ago at the
Royal Horticultural Society's Show at Preston, and it was the admiration
of every one who saw it. Mr. Mitchell, the gardener, informs us that it
blooms in the same style every year. The spikes are more than two feet
long, and well branched, while the colour of the flowers is very bright
and effective, so that it makes a fine exhibition plant. This variety is
much darker and brighter in its markings than the type.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 54.
COELOGYNE CRISTATA ALBA.]
COELOGYNE CRISTATA ALBA.
[Plate 54.]
_Native of India._
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ oblong, becoming somewhat angulate, growing
from a thick scaly rhizome, diphyllous. _Leaves_ linear-lanceolate,
somewhat flaccid. _Scape_ radical, erect, bearing a drooping raceme of
three to five flowers, furnished at the base with dry brown imbricated
scales; _bracts_ oblong, persistent, sheathing the stalked ovaries.
_Flowers_ large, fragrant, about four inches in diameter; _sepals_
oblong-lanceolate, acuminate, undulate, white; _petals_ similar to the
sepals in form and colour; _lip_ three-lobed, concave, everywhere pure
white, the lateral lobes half oblong, truncate at the upper end, and
somewhat broader than the small middle lobe, which is transversely
roundish and obtusely dentate; on the disk are five parallel veins or
lamellæ covered by delicate fringes, which are also white, the three
central ones having a wavy plate at their base, while in front of the
two which stand on each side the middle vein is a solid plate
terminating abruptly.
Coelogyne cristata alba, _Hort._; _Moore_, in _Gardeners' Chronicle_,
N.S., xv., 442; _Id._, N.S., xv., 511; _Id._, N.S., xvii., 153.
Coelogyne cristata hololeuca, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Gardeners'
Chronicle_, N.S., xv., 563; _Bull_, _Catalogue of New Plants, 1882_,
100.
All Orchidists know well the old type of _Coelogyne cristata_, which has
been in cultivation for many years, and which is one of the most useful
plants we have for winter decoration. In the novelty we now introduce we
have a pure white form of this plant, which is a most charming addition
to our collections, and which will assuredly be sought after by all
Orchid growers. We are indebted to the kindness of Mr. W. Bull, of the
King's Road, Chelsea, for the opportunity of figuring this choice
variety. It was first made known last year at the Regent's Park Spring
Exhibition, by Mr. J. D. Richards, gardener to T. A. Titley, Esq.,
Gledhaw, Leeds, who obtained for it a well merited First Class
Certificate, and shortly after the plant passed into the hands of Mr.
Bull, who gained another Certificate with it at South Kensington, and
has the honour of having introduced to the public a most lovely novelty.
The variety is extremely rare, Mr. Bull having only a very limited
number of plants. As will be seen from our plate it will make a most
useful plant for cutting, since pure white flowers are so highly
appreciated for bouquets and other decorative purposes.
The new variety is in all respects similar to the type, save in the
absence of the yellow blotch upon the lip. It is a compact-growing
evergreen plant, attaining the same dimensions as regards foliage and
bulbs as _Coelogyne cristata_ itself, and producing its pure white
spotless flowers in the same manner, four or five together on a drooping
spike; it blossoms during the winter and spring, and lasts for two or
three weeks in beauty if the flowers are kept dry. It is both a
free-growing and a free-blooming plant, and will no doubt thrive either
in the Odontoglossum or Cattleya house. If cultivated in a cool house we
should recommend that the plants be taken into a warmer structure when
they begin to show flower. We have always found _C. cristata_ to be
greatly benefited by this treatment, as the spikes are apt to damp off
in too cool an atmosphere; moreover, on account of their pure white
colour they seem to absorb the cold damp more quickly and readily than
many other flowers, and this of course soon disfigures them.
We have found good fibrous peat the best material in which to grow
_Coelogyne cristata_, and no doubt the variety we now figure will
require the same treatment, as the two forms are found growing together
in their native country. Pot culture will suit them best, as they
require a good amount of water at their roots during their growing
season, which can thus be secured. After the growth is completed less
water will suffice, but they must always be kept so far moist at the
root that their bulbs may remain in a plump firm condition.
Orchids at Fallowfield.--In this, which is one of the noted collections
near Manchester, _Dendrobium Falconeri_ was the first plant that
attracted attention; it is a choice kind, and there was a fine specimen
of it with two hundred of its bright purple, white, and orange-coloured
flowers in full beauty. This was an exceedingly well cultivated plant.
Mr. Swan, the gardener, informs us that he has had this specimen for
several years under cultivation, and that it improves each successive
season, and has been several times exhibited at the Manchester Shows. We
mention this in order that our readers may understand that this species
can be cultivated successfully for years with proper treatment. We also
noticed the charming _Thunia Bensoniæ_, with many spikes of its reddish
purple flowers, some of the spikes producing as many as eighteen flowers
on each spike. When grown in this way it forms a grand object of
attraction, especially as we possess but few Orchids of the same colour.
We also noticed some fine spikes of _Oncidium macranthum_, bearing its
bright yellow flowers, and when grown among the plants of _Odontoglossum
Alexandræ_, with their pure white blossoms, it produces with other
flowers a good effect. We also saw in the East India house some fine
plants of _Aërides Lobbii_ finely in bloom, some of their racemes of
bright coloured flowers being three feet in length and branched. _A.
crassifolium_ was in full beauty; it is one of the best of its family,
and one that should be grown in every collection, as it occupies such a
small space.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 55.
SCUTICARIA STEELII.]
SCUTICARIA STEELII.
[Plate 55.]
_Native of British Guiana._
Epiphytal. _Rhizome_ short, articulated, branched, ebulbous, the
branches monophyllous. _Leaves_ flagelliform, as thick as a swan's
quill, channelled, subulate at the apex, two to four feet long,
drooping. _Scape_ radical, short, one to three flowered. _Flower_
large, fragrant, with the perianth connivent; _sepals_ oblong, the
lateral ones produced at the base into a blunt chin, pale
primrose-yellow, blotched with deep reddish brown; _petals_ of the
same form and colour as the sepals; _lip_ three-lobed, pale yellow,
striately marked with brownish crimson, especially on the lateral
lobes, which are roundish erect, the intermediate one bilobed, with
roundish, subcuneate, divergent divisions, and bearing at the base an
oblong callus having three obtuse orange-coloured teeth in front.
_Column_ semiterete, decurrent with the base of the lateral sepals, so
as to form a blunt spur or chin; _pollen-masses_ four, sessile, in
pairs, on a dilated transverse gland, acuminate at both ends.
Scuticaria Steelii, _Lindley_, _Botanical Register_, xxix., misc., p.
14; _Reichenbach fil._, in _Walpers' Annales Botanices Systematicæ_,
vi., 551; _Williams_, _Orchid Grower's Manual_, 5 ed., 292.
Maxillaria Steelii, _Hooker_, _Botanical Magazine_, t. 3573;
_Lindley_, _Botanical Register_, t. 1986.
This is a small genus of Orchids separated from _Maxillaria_ by Dr.
Lindley, and generally adopted. The few species are distinct in their
habit of growth, as also in reference to the manner in which they
produce their flowers. That which we now figure is one of the best as
yet known. Our drawing was taken from a plant in the collection of W.
McDonald, Esq., Woodlands, Perth, who has many fine specimen Orchids,
and among them some choice species. We may state that Mr. McDonald often
sends us specimens of beautiful Orchids, such as we are always very glad
to receive from any growers, either for the purpose of naming, or with
the view to their illustration in the _Album_.
_Scuticaria Steelii_ is a native of British Guiana. The foliage is
terete, pendulous, and of a dark green colour, three to four feet in
length, and tapering off to a point; in fact it is almost like a rush in
its form. The flower spikes proceed from the rhizome at the base of the
leaves; they are about two inches high and generally three-flowered. The
sepals and petals are yellow, irregularly spotted with brownish crimson,
while the lip is yellow, striped with crimson. The plant blooms at
different times of the year, and continues a long time in perfection.
When in flower it is a very attractive object, those who see it in bloom
being astonished to find such a beautiful inflorescence proceeding from
the peculiar rush-like foliage, and when hanging from the roof of the
house the whole plant has a very singular and handsome appearance.
The plants thrive best grown on blocks of wood, with a little live
sphagnum moss about their roots; if the moss should become decayed it
must be removed and renewed by fresh. They will also grow on rough
blocks of wood without moss, but when cultivated in this way they
require the more frequent application of moisture to keep their roots
active. We have seen them thrive well in baskets, planted in rough
fibrous peat, but grown in this way they do not look so well. They
should be hung up as near to the glass as possible, in the full light,
as they require but little shade. They will do either in the Cattleya or
East India house. A good supply of water must be given during the
growing season, but less when their growth is completed. These plants
are not easy to increase, as they do not like to be divided.
Orchids at Chislehurst.--When calling in July last on W. Vanner, Esq.,
at Camden Wood, Chislehurst, we were pleased to find some beautiful
Orchids in bloom in the show house, which is a square lofty structure,
with tables round the sides, and chairs and seats in the centre. The
Orchids are here shown off to the best advantage, intermixed with
foliage and flowering plants, the flowering Orchids being brought into
this house as they come into bloom. We noticed some fine plants of
_Lælia purpurata_ in full beauty, one variety with rose-coloured sepals
and petals, and a beautifully veined rich dark amethyst lip, was
especially fine. _Cattleya Mendelii_ was well represented, one plant
having six spikes of bloom--a grand plant and the picture of health.
_Lælia elegans_ was also in bloom, a fine large variety, with a very
richly-coloured lip. We also saw here two specimens of the finest
varieties of _Odontoglossum hastilabium_ we have ever met with, having
large branching spikes, one with seventy flowers upon it; the sepals and
petals were creamy white, barred with purple, the lip white, with a
purple base. This is a grand exhibition Orchid, as it lasts a long time
in perfection.
In the next house were some fine plants of _Odontoglossum Alexandræ_;
one variety in particular was very fine, having rose-coloured sepals and
a very large finely spotted lip. The Bull's-blood variety of
_Masdevallia Harryana_ was in good form; also _M. Harryana læta_ and _M.
Harryana lilacina_, a very pretty light-coloured variety, with rosy
lilac flowers. _Sobralia macrantha_ was also very finely in flower, as
well as many other good things in bud, or making good growth for another
year.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 56.
SACCOLABIUM GIGANTEUM.]
SACCOLABIUM GIGANTEUM.
[Plate 56.]
_Native of Burmah._
Epiphytal. _Stem_ short, producing from the basal portion thick fleshy
roots. _Leaves_ subsecund, leathery, broadly lorate with the apex
oblique and bilobed, about a foot long and two inches broad,
channelled, the surface streaked. _Racemes_ densely flowered,
drooping, about equalling the leaves in length, axillary. _Flowers_
very numerous, handsomely spotted, and remarkably fragrant, with
broad, short, membraneous bracts at their base; _sepals_ oblong or
cuneate-ovate, obtuse, white, with a few amethyst dots; _petals_
narrower, obovate, white, more freely spotted with amethyst; _lip_
wedge-shaped, dilated, and trifid at the apex, the central portion
short, ligulate, and slightly retuse, and the lateral parts
semi-rhomboidal, all being of a beautiful mauve-violet or magenta
colour, veined with darker lines; from the short conical spur two
elevated hairy lines pass outwards, diverging in the middle, and
reuniting at the contracted portion of the lip. _Column_ greenish,
short, reclinate, the anther with a stout beak.
Saccolabium giganteum, _Lindley_, in _Wallich's Catalogue_, 7306;
_Id._, _Genera and Species of Orchidaceous Plants_, 221; _Bateman_, in
_Botanical Magazine_, t. 5635; _Jennings_, _Orchids_, t. 8;
_Williams_, _Orchid Grower's Manual_, 5 ed., 287.
Vanda densiflora, _Lindley_, in _Paxton's Flower Garden_, under t. 42;
_Id._, _Folia Orchidacea_, art. _Vanda_, No. 22; _Van Houtte_, _Flore
des Serres_, tt. 1765-66; _Reichenbach fil._, in _Walpers' Annales
Botanices Systematicæ_, vi., 869.
There can be no doubt as to the position that the Saccolabiums occupy in
the Orchid family--they certainly rank among the very finest of the
whole race. They are not very numerous, but among the known species
there are some which are of great beauty. They used to be exhibited in
splendid style some quarter of a century ago by the late S. Rucker,
Esq., of Wandsworth, Mrs. Lawrence, of Ealing Park, Dr. Butler, of
Woolwich, and also from other fine collections then in existence, at
which time there was seldom an exhibition group staged without a fine
specimen of _Saccolabium guttatum_, or some other equally fine species.
Now, however, we rarely see them shown. Orchid growers appear to have
forgotten this noble class of plants, and many beginners think that they
are difficult to cultivate, but we ourselves have never found them to be
so, and, together with other nurserymen, we are growing and selling
specimens every year. Where can the greater part of these go to? Why
they are purchased by foreigners, who seem to have a greater taste than
we have in this country for these most wonderful of all Orchids, which
even when not in bloom are objects of attraction from their noble aspect
and graceful foliage. Our illustration of _S. giganteum_ was taken from
a plant which bloomed in the Victoria and Paradise Nurseries, Holloway.
It blooms during the winter months, which adds to its value, as there
are but few Saccolabiums which flower at that season of the year. The
species, at first referred to _Saccolabium_ by Lindley, was afterwards
transferred by him to _Vanda_, under the name of _V. densiflora_.
_Saccolabium giganteum_ is a slow growing plant, and makes about three
leaves a year; from the axils of these the flower spikes emerge, and
extend to the length of ten or twelve inches. The plant continues in
bloom for about six weeks, the flowers, moreover, are deliciously
fragrant, which is an additional recommendation, indeed this species
possesses all the good qualities a plant can possess, and, if strong,
blooms freely when only a few inches high. We have seen a very fine
specimen of it in the beautiful collection of C. Walker, Esq., Brettagh
Holt, Milnthorpe, bearing many flower spikes, all of good length; it was
a noble object, one that Mr. Walker might well be proud of. We were
surprised three years ago to receive, amongst some imported masses, one
which stood three feet high, forming quite a pyramid of young growths,
and carrying from twenty to thirty spikes; other masses were also of
great size.
We have found this _Saccolabium_ to grow well in the East India house,
where the temperature by fire-heat during winter is kept at about 60°
during the night and 65° during the day. When the sun causes the heat to
rise above this, air should be given, avoiding cold draughts. The plants
require plenty of light, but must be shaded during the spring and summer
months, when the temperature should be about 65° by night and 70° by
day, or with sun-heat 75°. During June, July, and August it should range
from 70° to 75° by night and 75° to 80° by day. The house should be
moistened twice a day in summer--in the morning and in the afternoon,
about three or four o'clock, when it may be closed for the night,
always, however, keeping a certain amount of air on, but not sufficient
to interfere with the temperature.
We find the best material for growing the Saccolabiums in is fresh clean
sphagnum moss, with good drainage. If grown in pots these should be
nearly filled with drainage material, and the plants placed on sphagnum
moss and kept well elevated above the pot rim. They will do well in
baskets suspended from the roof, so that their roots can hang in the
moist atmosphere. They require a good supply of moisture during the
summer season, and also in autumn, but in winter less will suffice,
indeed during this season they must never be allowed to get too wet,
though the moss must be kept damp. They have no thick fleshy bulbs to
fall back upon for support, and therefore if they are allowed to become
too dry they will shrivel, and lose their lower leaves, which is a great
disfigurement. The plants must always be kept free from insects.
[Illustration: PL. 57.
PESCATOREA LEHMANNI.]
PESCATOREA LEHMANNI.
[Plate 57.]
_Native of the Andes of Ecuador._
Epiphytal. _Stems_ none, or consisting of a short crown or growing
point, from which the leaves, with their narrowed overlapping bases
and the stout fibrous roots proceed. _Leaves_ lorate-lanceolate acute,
upwards of a foot long, and from an inch to an inch and a half wide,
of thin, firm texture, ribbed. _Scapes_ radical, much shorter than the
leaves, bracteate, one-flowered. _Flowers_ large, upwards of three
inches across, showy, white striped with purple; _sepals_ and _petals_
broadly cuneate oblong, obtusely rounded, with a short projecting
point, white, with contiguous curved parallel lines of reddish purple
extending nearly to the edge; _lip_ deep mauve-purple, the basal
segments small, triangular, erect, the interposed calli forming a ruff
of chestnut-brown, consisting of about eleven ridges, the anterior
mauve-coloured portion oblong, revolute, retuse, covered with lines of
long bristle-like purple papillæ. _Column_ stout, curved forwards,
purple and rounded behind, brown in front, the anther case whitish
green.
Pescatorea Lehmanni, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Gardeners' Chronicle_,
N.S., xii., 424.
Zygopetalum Lehmanni, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Gardeners' Chronicle_,
N.S., xii., 424.
The genus _Pescatorea_ is one of recent introduction. A few years ago
the plants referred to it were unknown, but latterly they have been met
with by botanical collectors, and have gradually found their way to our
Orchid houses, some very beautiful species being included amongst them.
_Pescatorea Lehmanni_, represented in the accompanying illustration, is
one of these. It was exhibited a short time since at the Royal
Horticultural Society, South Kensington, by Messrs. Vervaet & Co.,
Nurserymen, of Ghent, Belgium, and on that occasion was deservedly
awarded a First Class Certificate. It was from this specimen, which was
a well-grown one, that our plate was taken. The plant was grown on a
block of wood, and thus placed had a really beautiful and attractive
appearance. The species was collected by Mr. Lehmann, in whose honour it
is named, and who has sent home many fine Orchids.
_Pescatorea Lehmanni_ is an evergreen plant, with broadish light green
ribbed foliage, which grows from twelve to eighteen inches in height.
The flowers are produced from the axils of the leaves at the base of the
very short stem, several proceeding from each tuft; they have the sepals
and petals white, striped with purple lines, while the lip is
mauve-coloured, covered with a number of hair-like papillæ, and having a
rich brown ruff or throat. The plant blooms after it has completed its
growth, and the flowers continue fresh for some considerable time; it
appears to yield its blossoms at different times of the year.
These plants are not generally well cultivated, but in the case of those
we saw at Messrs. Vervaet's there seemed to be no difficulty about it.
They were fixed on blocks of wood, which appears the most natural method
of cultivating them; and no plants could be thriving better, producing
finer foliage, or flowering more profusely than these. The appearance
they presented when hanging from the roof was very charming, as the
flowers and plants both seemed to be in their natural position, which of
course conduces greatly to success in their cultivation, wherein it is
wise in most cases to follow natural habits as closely as possible. They
are found in their native country growing on the branches of trees in
moist places, and in consequence when suspended from the roof they
require abundance of water, which can easily be applied with a syringe
about the roots. We have seen them thrive well on blocks plunged in pots
of fibrous peat, but in this way they frequently fail, and after two or
three years' growth the plants rot away. Of course there are exceptional
cases in which they grow well for a longer period; but they will, we
believe, be found to thrive better and last longer in a suspended
position, if they get shaded from the sun. Their leaves being broad and
thin are apt to become spotted if exposed to the full sun heat, but they
like plenty of light, which they get when hanging from the roof, besides
which their growth becomes more robust, and their foliage stands better.
We find the cool end of the East Indian house to suit them. They require
to be watered all the year round, not having bulbous stems to support
them, and they take little rest, being generally in full vigour. In
winter rather less water may be given, just sufficient to keep them
plump.
Insects must always be closely sought after, as the foliage of these
plants is tender, such as these pests delight to feed upon. The species
are propagated by dividing them where there are one or two back shoots,
with a young growth in front.
Watering Orchids.--We have found rain-water to be the best for Orchids
and for all kinds of plants, this being the water supplied in their
natural habitats. Rain-water is easily to be obtained, by providing
tanks under the stages, and allowing the rain-water to enter from the
roof; in this way no room is lost. A pump should be attached, in case
the water gets low in dry weather, when it can be easily raised to the
required height.
The plan we adopt is to have a deep cemented tank in the centre of the
house, under the stage, so that the top may be open; this allows the
water which is standing in the tank to become somewhat warmed by contact
with the atmosphere of the house, which is very beneficial; in fact,
Orchids should never be watered with water that has not had the chill
taken off, as cold water, especially in winter time, causes spot, and
may rot the growths and injure the roots. Into this tank the rain-water
runs from the roof, and as we have the New River water laid on as well,
when rain-water is scarce we fill up with this, and thereby have a
mixture of rain and hard water.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 58.
ODONTOGLOSSUM TRIUMPHANS.]
ODONTOGLOSSUM TRIUMPHANS.
[Plate 58.]
_Native of New Grenada._
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ ovate oblong, two to three inches in length,
furrowed when old, diphyllous. _Leaves_ oblong-lanceolate, acuminate,
narrowed to the base. _Scape_ arising from the base of the
pseudobulbs, elongate, the inflorescence racemose, the flowers having
longish internodes between them, and the pedicels each furnished with
a small triangular bract at its base. _Flowers_ large, handsomely
spotted; _sepals_ oblong acute, narrowed to the base, deep golden
yellow, marked for three-fourths of their length with transverse spots
and blotches of rich brownish crimson; _petals_ similar in form and
colour, somewhat broader, the margins lobulate or sinuate-dentate;
_lip_ clawed, the limb fiddle-shaped, apiculate, with the point
recurved, the margin denticulate, the basal half white with yellow
crests, and the anterior portion of a rich brownish crimson, narrowly
edged with yellow, the claw bicarinate, the keel running out into
crests on the disk, with a pair of larger falcate crests interposed.
_Column_ white, semi-terete, curved at the tip, with a rhombic
minutely erose wing.
Odontoglossum triumphans, _Reichenbach fil._, _Bonplandia_, ii., 99;
_Id._, _Pescatorea_, t. 46 (less densely blotched, and lip tipped with
rosy purple); _Lemaire_, _Illustration Horticole_, t. 609 (as in
Pescatorea); _Bateman_, _Monograph of Odontoglossum_, t. 23;
_Williams_, _Orchid Grower's Manual_, 5 ed., 245.
The varied phases of beauty which are met with in the genus
_Odontoglossum_ are quite overwhelming; indeed so many of the species
are really fine plants that to describe and illustrate all that are
deserving would alone be a heavy task. We have now, at least, before us
a species of the _O. luteo-purpureum_ group which is quite distinct, _O.
triumphans_, which we may observe is one of the most useful to
cultivators, since it mixes up so well and forms so fine a contrast in
colour with the forms of the _O. Alexandræ_ type. The particular variety
we now illustrate, and which is a very remarkable one, was kindly sent
us by E. Wright, Esq., Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, who has been
cultivating Orchids for many years, and who has also sent us blossoms of
many other beautiful species. The spike of _O. triumphans_ here
represented was, it will be seen, a very fine one, having splendidly
marked and showy flowers. There are many varieties of this species, some
of them being lighter in colour than others; in fact there is an almost
endless variation among the imported plants owing no doubt to the chance
intercrossing of the parents, which has been effected by insects in
their native country, where so many of them are found in contiguous
spots. Our home cultivators too are taking a hint from the insect world,
and doing much service to floriculture by hybridising some of the
choicest forms of Orchids with remarkably good results. We hope their
success will encourage them to continue their pleasing and profitable
work.
_Odontoglossum triumphans_ is an evergreen plant, with pseudobulbs from
two to three inches in height, and foliage of a light green colour,
growing about twelve inches high. The flower-spikes are produced after
the plant has completed its growth; in some of the varieties these grow
two or three feet in length, with many flowers developed upon them. The
sepals and petals are of a golden yellow, barred with brownish crimson;
the lip is white at the base, its front portion having a large irregular
blotch of brownish crimson. It generally blooms during the spring and
winter months, and lasts for six or more weeks in beauty. This is a most
useful feature in the Odontoglots, as they can be used for decorative
purposes, and can be removed into living rooms without any injury to the
plant or flowers if due care be taken--that is to say, the heat need not
be higher than from 45° to 50°, they must not be placed near gas, and
the roots must be occasionally moistened.
As an example of the power of endurance possessed by these plants we may
mention that we took a plant packed in a box with other specimens to
America, and showed it at the Philadelphia Exhibition, where the
Odontoglot lasted some time in full beauty. We also took many other
Orchids in bud, and they flowered after their arrival, much to the
astonishment of the American cultivators. Mr. R. Warner carried an
Odontoglossum in full bloom to the St. Petersburgh Exhibition, and
afterwards, while still in blossom, showed it in London. We mention
these facts to show what may be done with these beautiful flowers.
_Odontoglossum triumphans_ requires the same treatment as _O. Alexandræ_
as regards temperature, material for potting, and moisture at the roots.
Disa grandiflora superba.--This grand Orchid is grown very successfully
by Mr. Elphinstone, gardener to John Heywood, Esq., the Grange,
Stretford, Manchester. We received from him a spike of it bearing seven
flowers--a perfect marvel of cultivation. We should like to see this
gorgeous plant better managed than it generally is, it being, when grown
as Mr. Elphinstone grows it, without exception the most showy Orchid in
cultivation.
[Illustration: PL. 59.
VANDA ROXBURGHII.]
VANDA ROXBURGHII.
[Plate 59.]
_Native of India._
Epiphytal. _Stems_ dwarf, stout, erect, leafy, with aërial roots from
the lower portion. _Leaves_ two-ranked, evergreen, leathery, light
green, ligulate, channelled, obliquely tridentate at the apex.
_Flowers_ six to twelve, in erect axillary racemes longer than the
leaves, tessellated; _sepals_ and _petals_ oblong-obovate, obtuse,
undulated, white on the exterior surface, the inner side pale green,
marked with olive-brown in chequered lines; _lip_ three-lobed,
projected backwards near the middle to form a short pinkish spur; the
lateral lobes lanceolate, sharp-pointed, about as long as the column,
white; the middle lobe convex, with the sides inflected beneath,
ovate, emarginate and very obtuse, channelled, violet-purple, deeper
towards the apex. _Column_ short, thick, obtuse, white.
Vanda Roxburghii, _R. Brown_, in _Botanical Register_, t. 506;
_Lindley_, _Genera and Species of Orchidaceous Plants_, 215; _Id._
_Folia Orchidacea_, art. _Vanda_, No. 4; _Id._ _Paxton's Flower
Garden_, t. 42, fig. 2; _Hooker_, _Botanical Magazine_, t. 2245; _Van
Houtte_, _Flore des Serres_, ii., t. 11; _Wight_, _Icones Plantarum
Indiæ Orientalis_, iii., t. 916; _Williams_, _Orchid Grower's Manual_,
5 ed., 307.
Vanda tessellata, _Loddiges_; _Paxton's Magazine of Botany_, vii., 265
(var. with rosy lip).
Vanda tesselloides, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Walpers' Annales Botanices
Systematicæ_, vi., 864.
Cymbidium tesselloides, _Roxburgh_, _Flora Indica_, iii., 463.
We now bring before our readers a plant that few of the present
generation of Orchid growers have seen, but one which we think they all
should possess, as it requires but little space, and produces its
flower-spikes on very small specimens. Our plate will give some idea of
this, as it represents a full-sized plant, with a spike of very
charmingly coloured flowers. There are several varieties of this species
known, among which we consider the one which our plate pourtrays to be
an excellent form. The plant represented is in the collection of W. Lee,
Esq., Downside, Leatherhead. We are delighted to know that Mr. Lee is
taking up the cultivation of the Vandas (of which he possesses a
splendid collection), and intends devoting a centre table in one of his
houses to their accommodation. There are no Orchids that flower so
freely when they are well grown; indeed, Mr. Lee blooms many plants of
_Vanda tricolor_ while quite small. When the specimens attain a large
size they flower two or three times a year, lasting each time some six
weeks, or even more, in perfection. They are extremely fragrant,
imparting a grateful odour to the whole atmosphere of the house. Other
growers also are paying more regard to these beautiful plants, which we
are glad to observe, as, though they flower so often, they do not
require so much heat as some East Indian kinds.
_Vanda Roxburghii_ is a dwarf compact growing plant, with light green
foliage. The flower-spikes proceed from the axils of the leaves, and are
upright, bearing from six to twelve flowers. The sepals and petals are
of a greenish yellow, netted with purplish brown, the lip being of a
bright mauve colour. This plant usually blossoms in May, and lasts six
weeks in full beauty; but it sometimes varies as to the time of
flowering.
The treatment which we find to suit this plant is to grow it in a basket
suspended from the roof, where it procures a good amount of light, being
merely shaded in summer when the sun is hot. It does best at the coolest
end of the East Indian house. We have also cultivated it in a pot with
good drainage and sphagnum moss; it requires a moderate supply of water
in summer, but in winter only just sufficient should be given to moisten
the moss.
Watering Orchids.--There can be no doubt that Orchids, like other
plants, are particular as to the fluids given to them to nourish their
roots. We often hear growers say, that the water obtainable in the
particular locality where they may reside is hard, and that their plants
do not thrive as they should do. We can fully sympathise with these men,
as we know that hard water is bad for Orchids as well as for other
plants. Hardwooded plants especially will not thrive if the water they
receive does not suit them; but it must be borne in mind that these
plants have fine hair-like roots, and are much sooner killed than
Orchids which have thick fleshy roots. When conversing the other day
with an Orchid grower from the north of England, who said that his
plants were not doing well, that he could not keep the sphagnum moss
alive--which he attributed to the use of hard water--and that he
consequently put up a cistern for rain-water, and employed that, we were
not surprised to hear that the result had been to improve the health of
the plants, and that the moss was now growing luxuriantly.
There is a great difference between different hard waters; some contain
a quantity of iron, while others contain lime; these when used for
syringing leave white marks upon the foliage. We believe water
containing chalk and lime to be beneficial to some kinds of Orchids,
especially Cypripediums; in fact, some growers use chalk or broken
limestone mixed with charcoal and peat to grow them in, and they succeed
very well in it. We have frequently seen distinct traces of lime on
imported Cypripediums. An importation of _Cypripedium Spicerianum_,
received some time ago, was literally covered with lime deposit,
probably owing to the plants having been found growing in the fissures
of limestone rocks, where the water trickled down upon them. We should
think that water containing iron would be the most injurious to Orchids.
[Illustration: PL. 60.
LÆLIA PERRINII.]
LÆLIA PERRINII.
[Plate 60.]
_Native of Brazil._
Epiphytal. _Pseudobulbs_ (stems) club-shaped, under a foot in height,
becoming furrowed when old. _Leaves_ solitary, oblong-obtuse, about as
long as the stems, coriaceous, of a dark green colour. _Spathes_
oblong, compressed, green, often tinged with purple. _Scape_
two-flowered, purplish. _Flowers_ large, about six inches in
expansion, richly coloured; _sepals_ linear-oblong, bluntish, the
lateral ones falcate, of a diluted magenta-rose; _petals_ broader,
oblong-lanceolate, of the same colour as the sepals; _lip_
oblong-lanceolate, three-lobed, unguiculate, the base forming an
inflated fistular cavity, the lateral lobes erect, acute, convergent
over the column, the middle lip elongate, oblong-obtuse, wavy at the
margin, the basal portion white inside, washed externally with
magenta, the front part of an intense velvety purple-crimson.
_Pollen-masses_ eight.
Lælia Perrinii, _Lindley_, _Botanical Register_, 1842, under t. 62;
_Paxton's Magazine of Botany_, xiii., 5; _Williams_, _Orchid Grower's
Manual_, 5 ed., 207.
Cattleya Perrinii, _Lindley_, _Botanical Register_, 1838, t. 2;
_Hastingen_, _Paradisus Vindobonensis_, i., t. 10.
Bletia Perrinii, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Walpers' Annales Botanices
Systematicæ_, vi., 421.
The _Lælia Perrinii_ is a very old species, and one that nearly all
Orchid growers have seen or had in their possession, but we do not
consider it too ancient to be introduced to the notice of our
subscribers. It is a useful acquisition to the Orchid house, as it
flowers when there are few Lælias, or any other Orchids in bloom. There
are several varieties of this _Lælia_, which vary in colour, some being
much paler than others. The form we here illustrate is part of an
importation we received a few years ago, many of which bore blossoms of
the same colour as that here represented. A pure white variety also came
from the same locality at the same time, but the latter is very rare,
there being only a few plants in this country. The white-flowered forms
seem to be making their appearance in many of the species of _Lælia_ and
_Cattleya_. We are glad to notice this, as they make a very pretty
contrast with the dark-coloured flowers, of which we have so many in
these two genera--genera which resemble each other very closely, the
only tangible difference being in the number of pollen-masses.
_Lælia Perrinii_ is an evergreen plant, with dark green foliage and
pseudobulbs, the leaves being about a foot high, and the pseudobulbs ten
inches. The flower-spikes proceed from the top of the bulbs, and issue
from a sheathing bract; they appear after the plants have completed
their growth. The sepals and petals are of a light tint of magenta
colour, while the lip is of a dark purple-crimson, with a rich yellow
throat. The species blooms in October and November, and continues for
about two weeks in perfection.
It requires the same treatment as _Cattleya Mossiæ_, and is best grown
in a pot with good drainage and fibrous peat. It must be kept moist at
the roots during the growing season, but after it has completed its
growth less water will do, that is, merely enough to keep the roots and
leaves in a plump state. When it recommences to grow a little water may
be applied to encourage it to make strong growths, which are the
precursors of finer flowers. The plants must be always fully exposed to
light by being kept near the glass.
Orchids at Bickley.--A recent visit to Oldfield, the residence of F. A.
Philbrick, Esq., Q.C., reminds us of the grand collection of Orchids in
Avenue Road, Regent's Park, many of the best of which were sold on Mr.
Philbrick changing his residence. It is surprising to find the rapid way
in which a new collection is now being grown and brought together in the
new place. Houses had to be built, and the plants removed from one
garden to the other, which, of course, involves more or less of injury.
It is now twelve months since we visited this place, and the change that
has taken place in that interval in respect to the collection of Orchids
is remarkable, and highly creditable to Mr. Heims, the gardener. The
plants have real vigour about them, sending out their growths and making
roots freely, which is a sure sign they are doing well. The Cattleya
house is a well-built structure, having plenty of light, with provision
for a good circulation of air, two things very essential to the
successful cultivation of Orchids. Mr. Philbrick is doing the right
thing in securing the very best species and varieties, for, as he
remarked to us, "they take up no more room than the bad ones, which are
dear at any price." We noticed some grand specimens of _Lælia purpurata_
in bloom, with many spikes of flowers, and there were some wonderful
varieties among them; also some large specimens of _Cattleya Mossiæ_ in
bloom. Of _Sobralia macrantha_ there were large specimens which had been
very fine; and of _Cattleya Mendelii_ some fine varieties. Near to these
stood several good Lælias, such as _L. elegans_, _L. anceps alba_, and
_L. anceps Dawsoni_, which were growing vigorously. _Epidendrum
ritellinum majus_ was at the time finely in bloom.--B. S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 61.
VANDA PARISHII MARRIOTTIANA.]
VANDA PARISHII MARRIOTTIANA.
[Plate 61.]
_Native of Moulmein._
Epiphytal. _Plant_ dwarf, compact, evergreen, the _stem_ short, with
closely-set leaves, and thick aërial roots. _Leaves_ distichous,
ligulate-obtuse, with an unequal bilobed apex, stout and fleshy in
texture, narrower, less drooping, and more densely set than in the
type. _Scape_ axillary, the spike erect, bearing several (about six)
flowers. _Flowers_ large, scentless, but remarkable for their
beautiful colouring; _sepals_ roundish-obovate, the outer surface pale
mauve, with darker mauve blotches, and a well developed white keel,
the inner surface bronzy-brown, richly suffused with magenta; _petals_
similar in form and size, wholly mauve-coloured exteriorly, and within
of the same brownish magenta tint as the sepals; _lip_ auricled at the
base, and produced into a short gibbous spur, the auricles white, with
longitudinal mauve stripes, and two yellow blotches beneath the
column, the interior portion of the richest magenta or lake-carmine,
rhomboid, gibbous below the apex, and having a keel along the median
line, and a conical callus at the base. _Column_ bent forward, white
marked with purple.
Vanda Parishii Marriottiana, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Gardener's
Chronicle_, N.S., xiii., 743; xv., 726.
Of this handsome novelty Professor Reichenbach observes, that it is "a
very unexpected glorious surprise." We are indebted to the courtesy of
H. J. Ross, Esq., Castagnolo, à Lastra, à Signa, Italy, for the
opportunity of figuring it, he having been kind enough to send us a
flower-spike, accompanied by a coloured sketch of the entire plant; we
have since exchanged a few plants of it with him, and from these several
materials our plate has been prepared.
_Vanda Parishii Marriottiana_ was first flowered by Sir W. H. S.
Marriott, Bart., in honour of whom it was named by Professor
Reichenbach. It is totally distinct from the type, which was figured in
the first volume of this work under Plate 15; and from which it will be
seen that while in that the sepals and petals are distinctly spotted,
they are in the variety before us of a bronzy brown, richly suffused
with magenta, the lip being altogether of a rich magenta, as in the
original form. This variety also differs from the type in having
scentless flowers; and, moreover, the growth of the plant is altogether
distinct, the leaves being more closely set on the short stem, as well
as narrower, and less drooping.
A curious fact is mentioned by Professor Reichenbach, in his original
description of this choice variety, namely, that, when fading, the
blossoms take on an olive-green tint with dark blotches, thus in some
degree reverting to the original colours.
_Vanda Parishii Marriottiana_ requires the same treatment as other
Vandas, and which has been already described under Plate 15.
Orchids in France.--The Chateau de Gouville is situated about twelve
miles from Rouen, in a most picturesque part of Normandy, and is the
country seat of the Comte de Germiny, a nobleman who is a most ardent
admirer of Orchids, and spares no pains to extend his very fine
collection, which is unequalled in France. The plant houses are situated
near to the Chateau, and are well built of iron and stone, having
circular roofs. On entering the first, which is filled with Caladiums
and Gloxinias, one is at once struck with the beauty of these flowers;
there is an endless variety of colour in the collection, and the size of
the flowers is remarkable, larger than any we have previously met with.
There is yet another house entirely filled with Gloxinias, which we had
to pass through, when a large house is reached, where Stove Plants with
ornamental foliage are planted out in the central portion, forming a
handsome _parterre_, through which a stream of water flows. Above this
natural undergrowth, the Vandas and Saccolabiums are suspended in
baskets, and as a collection, are the finest we have ever seen. Among
them we noted grand plants of _V. suavis_, of _V. tricolor_ and its
finest varieties, and of _V. coerulea_, some of them being several feet
high, and in perfect health. We also noticed enormous masses of
Saccolabiums growing on suspended blocks of wood, as imported. The
plants evidently like this treatment, as they are rooting most profusely
among the undergrowth, and the effect is indeed most charming. On the
side stages are some grand plants of _Phalænopsis Schilleriana_, and of
_P. amabilis_, as well as numerous Saccolabiums, Aërides, &c. We noticed
a nice plant of the rare _Renanthera matutina_ in bloom; this is a
little gem, reminding one of a miniature _Renanthera coccinea_. At one
end of this fine house, growing on rustic stands, is a fine collection
of _Nepenthes_, forming together with the Orchids and other plants, as
viewed from the entrance, a truly imposing tropical scene.
Leaving this house, we came to a compartment where are some grand plants
of _Coelogyne cristata_, with large masses of Pescatoreas, Bolleas,
Dendrobes, &c., in vigorous health. The Cattleya house contains some
wonderful examples of cultivation; we noticed particularly the
following:--_Cattleya exoniensis_ in bloom; two fine specimens of _C.
labiata pallida_ just past flower; _Lælia elegans alba_; _L. Perrinii_,
fine specimens in bloom; _Cattleya gigas_ just opening; and several
grand plants of _C. Trianæ_, showing quantities of flower, as well as of
_C. Mossiæ_, and _Lælia purpurata_.
In the Odontoglossum house are many fine plants of good varieties and of
rare species, all doing well, and presenting a picture of health. Here
we saw the true _Cypripedium Chantinii_ flowering profusely, and _C.
Spicerianum_ with several spikes. A small house adjoining this is
entirely devoted to _Phalænopsids_, the plants being suspended from the
roof in baskets over tanks of water, which method of cultivation seems
to agree well with them.
Altogether this is one of the finest collections of Orchids we have ever
had the good fortune to see, the East Indian kinds being especially well
cultivated. Great credit is due to M. Rondeau, the gardener, for the
manner in which he manages his plants, and as M. le Comte remarked to
us, for a gardener to grow his plants well, he must love them as he
loves his children.--H. Williams.
[Illustration: PL. 62.
MASDEVALLIA IGNEA.]
MASDEVALLIA IGNEA.
[Plate 62.]
_Native of New Grenada._
Epiphytal. _Stems_ slender, erect, tufted. _Leaves_ evergreen,
coriaceous, six to eight inches long, the blade deep green,
elliptic-oblong, blunt or notched at the apex, keeled behind, and
narrowed below into a long slender channelled petiole, which is
invested at the base by one or two membranous sheaths. _Scapes_
slender, radical, ten to twelve inches long, invested at the base by
sheaths, and having a sheathing bract beneath the blossom like those
of the leaves. _Flowers_ remarkable in form, and brilliant in colour,
paler on the outer surface; _dorsal sepal_ keeled, attenuate or
subfiliform from a triangular base, bent down between the two lateral
sepals so as to occupy the sinus, pale orange-red; _lateral sepals_
connate below, elliptic-oblong, acute or apiculate, obliquely
incurved, of a vivid cinnabar-red or glowing orange-scarlet, with
three deeper red nerves; all united at the base into an incurved
gibbous tube; _petals_ white, small, included, ligulate, acute,
hastately auricled at the base in front; _lip_ white, small, enclosed,
unguiculate, linguiform, subcordate at the base, crenulate in front.
_Column_ erect, wingless.
Masdevallia ignea, _Reichenbach fil._, in _Gardeners' Chronicle_,
1871, 1482; _Hooker fil._, _Botanical Magazine_, t. 5962; _Moore_,
_Florist and Pomologist_, 1873, 169, with coloured plate; _André_,
_Illustration Horticole_, t. 333; _Gardeners' Chronicle_, 1872, 545,
fig. 149; _Floral Magazine_, 2 ser., t. 15.
This is a most distinct species of _Masdevallia_, and one that should be
welcomed wherever richly coloured flowers are required, whether it be
for exhibition purposes, or as a distinct companion to the other fine
members of this genus. For the supply of cut flowers it will be found
invaluable, on account of its distinct glowing colour. There are a great
many varieties among the species of this genus--some of which are
infinitely superior to the one here figured, and the most select and
distinct of which we hope to be able to illustrate at a future time. We
find upon reference to those publications wherein the various
Masdevallias have been figured, that the several artists have done but
scant justice to their remarkable beauty, owing, we suppose, to the
frequent want of the pigments necessary to represent truthfully their
rich colouring and markings. We refer here more particularly to that
section of the genus represented by _M. Harryana_. Since the publication
of some of those plates, however, the chemist has had the good fortune
to discover the two lovely colours, magenta and mauve, by the aid of
which we are now enabled to pourtray more accurately than before these
wonderful productions of nature, the Orchids, in which the two colours
referred to largely preponderate.
_Masdevallia ignea_ is a dwarf growing evergreen species, producing its
flowers singly on erect growing peduncles during the summer months, and
lasting for some weeks in perfection. It was introduced from New Grenada
in 1870. Our plate was taken from a well-grown plant flowered in the
fine collection of C. Dorman, Esq., The Firs, Lawrie Park, Sydenham,
under the care of Mr. Coningsby.
The Masdevallias require a copious supply of water all the year round,
but more particularly when they are making young growths; abundance of
air and efficient shade, with a temperature varying from 45° to 50°, are
also necessary to their free development. The treatment is more fully
explained under Plate 24.
These plants are subject to the attacks both of the thrips and the green
fly, which should be vigorously pursued and destroyed. Should they
become numerous, the plants should be carefully fumigated, say two or
three times a week, until the pests are annihilated. When the smoke is
applied, care should be taken to have the plants dry, and to remove
those which are in bud or in flower. Propagation is effected by division
just before the plants begin to grow.
Edinburgh International Horticultural Exhibition, _September_,
1882.--There were many Orchids at this Show, which, we think, our
readers will be pleased to see noticed, especially as it was late in the
season for Orchids to be in bloom. There were many fine specimen plants
shown in the various classes. A. Paul, Esq., exhibited a fine plant of
_Cattleya Harrisonii_, with thirteen spikes of its delicate-coloured
blossoms; also the lovely and rare _Lælia Turnerii_, with its
rich-coloured flowers, eight on each spike; and a fine specimen of
_Saccolabium_, quite distinct in character, with a very large and long
spike of flowers; the same plant last year produced four spikes, each
nearly two feet in length, and is itself eighteen inches in height, and
two feet across; the showy _Odontoglossum grande_ was very finely shown,
also _Vanda suavis_. W. McDonald, Esq., of Perth, had some fine plants;
we noticed a well-cultivated _Cattleya crispa superba_, with fine spikes
of flowers; also, _Odontoglossum grande_, with seven spikes of bloom;
this is one of the most showy and best of Orchids at this time of the
year. The same grower also exhibited a good specimen of _O. Pescatorei_,
and the rare _Cattleya exoniensis_, which was in fine colour. From C.
Walker, Esq., of Brettagh Holt, came some fine plants of _Odontoglossum
grande_. The most extraordinary specimen was _Renanthera coccinea_,
which was exhibited by Mrs. Tait, Milrig, Galston; it stood five feet in
height, with four of its richly-coloured spikes of blossom, one of which
bore about one hundred expanded flowers; it was a most gorgeous sight,
especially as it bloomed in such a small state, for the plant, as a
rule, makes a long growth before it commences flowering. Dr. Paterson,
of the Bridge of Allan, exhibited a most charming variety of _Cattleya
Dowiana_; and J. Douglas, Esq., of Dalkeith, showed a fine form of
_Cattleya gigas_. Our limited space will not permit us to say more.--B.
S. W.
[Illustration: PL. 63.
COELOGYNE PANDURATA.]
COELOGYNE PANDURATA.
[Plate 63.]
_Native of Borneo._
Epiphytal, _Pseudobulbs_ large, somewhat compressed, oblong ovate,
bearing about two leaves at the summit. _Leaves_ large,
broadly-lanceolate, plaited, eighteen inches long, many-nerved.
_Scape_ radical, produced with the young growth, supporting a
pendulous raceme somewhat longer than the leaves. _Flowers_ numerous,
rather distant, large, four inches across when fully expanded,
fragrant, each one issuing from the axil of a brown cucullate
deciduous bract as long as the pedicel; _sepals_ and _petals_
linear-oblong, acute, pale green; _lip_ concave at the base,
cordate-oblong, appearing to be panduriform from the inflection at the
sides, retuse, setaceo-acuminate, the edges crisped, green marked with
blackish veins and stains, the disk with three keels and two deep
double-warted crests on each side, the crests converging towards the
middle of the lip, where they are lost amongst a series of irregular
rugged often two-lobed warts. _Column_ green, with the edges thin and
rounded.
Coelogyne pandurata. _Lindley_, _Gardeners' Chronicle_, 1853, 791;
_Id._ _Folia Orchidacea_, art. Coelogyne, No. 7; _Hooker_, _Botanical
Magazine_, t. 5084; _Bateman_, _Second Century of Orchidaceous
Plants_, t. 160; _Van Houtte_, _Flore des Serres_, t. 2139;
_Reichenbach fil._, _Xenia Orchidacea_, t. 121; _Id._ _Walpers'
Annales Botanices Systematicæ_, vi., 224.
As a curiously beautiful plant this Orchid is perhaps unequalled. It is
very rarely met with in a flowering state in collections, which is the
more to be wondered at, as though the flowers are not bright in colour,
yet on account of the peculiar association of tints--light green and
black--and their large size, it makes a very attractive object. The
flowers are produced upon drooping spikes from the young growths during
the summer, and continue for some time in perfection.
_Coelogyne pandurata_ is a native of Borneo, where, according to Mr.
Low, it is common on trees, in shady places overhanging water. It
thrives best in the temperature of the Cattleya house, and during the
period of growth requires a good supply of water. After the growth is
complete, less water must be given, until it begins again to show signs
of starting into fresh growth, when the supply should be gradually
augmented.
The specimen here figured was flowered in the fine collection of Baron
J. H. Schroeder, The Dell, Staines, under the care of Mr. Ballantyne,
the gardener, who seems to be very successful in the cultivation of this
interesting plant.
The root material in which we find it to succeed best, is a compost of
peat, with a little moss and charcoal added. It does well either in a
pot or in a basket, suspended from the roof, but should be well shaded
from the sun, as too much sunlight causes the leaves to become spotted
and look sickly, and this is very detrimental to the plants. It will be
found to be a very free-growing species, when it obtains the treatment
it requires.
The plant is propagated by separating the pseudobulbs just before they
start into growth.
Orchids in France.--The Chateau de Ferrières, the country seat of Baron
Alphonse de Rothschild, in the department of Seine et Marne, is situated
about 33 kilometres from Paris, and about two miles from the station
Ozouer la Ferrière, on the Ligne de Mulhouse. Orchid growers, when in
Paris, would do well to pay this wonderful place a visit, since it is
unequalled both for size and beauty by any other place in France. Here
Orchids are well cared for, Mr. Bergman, the gardener, being very
successful in their cultivation, admirably seconded as he is by his son,
who passed some years in this country, studying gardening in all its
branches.
Commencing with the Vanda house we were pleased to find these noble
plants so much at home, there being several remarkable specimens of _V.
suavis_, _V. tricolor_, and _V. tricolor insignis_, marvels of
cultivation. _Vanda coerulea_ is doing well and flowering profusely. _V.
Lowei_ is represented by a plant of enormous dimensions, having four
strong growths, and is one of the finest plants we have ever seen. The
species of _Phalænopsis_ are also well grown here, in company with the
Vandas, and right well do they seem to like their company, since there
are some wonderful plants of nearly all the species, thriving well and
making strong flowering spikes. In the Cattleya house are some fine
healthy plants of all the best species and varieties thriving admirably.
Mr. Bergman gives his plants plenty of light, which causes them to look
somewhat yellow, but he gets his bulbs ripened off well, and flowers
them in greater profusion. Passing from here to the new Odontoglossum
house we find a grand collection of these favourite Orchids. These
plants are grown very largely here, as cut Orchids are in great request.